Chile’s Chillán Hot Springs: Cuisine, hikes and wooded ski runs

Among Chile’s impressive natural wonders, the Andean mountain range not only offers remarkable slopes for skiers and snowboarders but in some places, the reward of relaxing in a hot spring after a long day on the slopes. One such haven with particularly welcoming amenities and luxury comfort can be found at Termas de Chillán, or Chillán Hot Springs.

Termas de Chillán is a mountain resort and an oasis amidst a native forest and snow-capped peaks. Among the surrounding mountains are three volcanoes – the famous Nevados de Chillán. These nearby volcanoes create hot springs and heated pools with average temperatures of 140 ˚F (60 ˚C) and make for an ideal spa facility. Termas de Chillán features saunas, indoor and outdoor jacuzzis, massage rooms, mud and water treatments and more.

Located in central Chile, the resort can be accessed from Chillán, a city 251 miles (405 km) south of Santiago. Another 51 miles (82 km) to the east is where you’ll find Termas de Chillán. On account of its location and at an altitude of 5577 feet (1,700 mt) above sea level, Termas de Chillán receives generous amounts of annual snowfall and thus offers particularly good skiing conditions for beginners and experts alike.

From nine lifts, skiers can access 28 perfectly groomed slopes. Known as “Las Tres Marías,” Termas de Chillán offers the longest ski run in Latin America, which meanders through the wooded slopes for 11.8 miles (19 km).

In addition to skiing and snowboarding, visitors can take advantage of mountain treks, dog-sledding and snowmobiling.

Termas de Chillán also offers a variety of food that ranges from French cuisine to hearty pizzas and empanadas. For those seeking a night-cap, Termas de Chillán has a bar that conveniently offers pisco sours among other select types of liquid therapy.